Dunkermotoren (www.dunkermotoren.de) has unveiled its brushless dc motors integrated with fieldbus-enabled motion controllers that have been optimized to reduce installation costs, minimize development time and offer lowest total cost of ownership (TCO) in various solar tracking applications. Compared to fixed photovoltaic panel, the STM Solar Tracker effectively increases electric energy production by 30 percent to 35 percent.

The STM line has been specifically designed to control a maximum of 127 motors across a bus length of 5000 meter (16,400 ft) using the integral CANopen interface of the motor with one economic, off-the-shelf PLC that features a solar tracking function block. The brushless dc motors can also be utilized with industrial PCs as well as Modbus and Profibus networks. The integral control’s embedded intelligence offers up to 650,000 hour MTTF, significantly reducing bus traffic by performing complex routines on board, such as closing and homing the position loop with a connected inclinometer or absolute encoder. Meanwhile, the embedded intelligence of the motors can take over mission critical functions, such as reverting back to a safe position, whenever the network is down.

Offered in frame sizes 45, 65 and 75, with powers up to 0.7 HP (530W), the low voltage brushless dc STM motors can be integrated with current design slew drives, linear actuators as well as pan and tilt mechanisms utilized in the solar industry. When added gear reduction is needed, the brushless motors can also be mated with the company’s modular worm or planetary reducers that provide up to 678 Nm (6000 in-lb) peak torques.

Rated IP65 environmental protection, the STM motors are maintenance free for live as its integral control features torque and speed regulation that prevent mechanical damage.